GECF Secretary General to Join IAE 2026 Forum as Africa Gas Investment Gains Momentum

The Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2026 Forum will feature participation from the Secretary General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum. The development comes as Africa’s gas and LNG sectors continue to evolve amid shifting global energy dynamics.

Dr. Mshelbila assumed office at the GECF on January 1, 2026. He brings more than three decades of experience across the gas and LNG value chain, including leadership roles at Nigeria LNG and Atlantic LNG. The GECF is an intergovernmental organization representing major gas-producing countries.

According to the GECF’s Global Gas Outlook and related analyses, Africa could attract up to $115 billion in gas midstream investment between 2031 and 2040, primarily driven by LNG and liquefaction projects. The continent is projected to account for nearly a quarter of global liquefaction investments by 2050, with projects in Mozambique, Nigeria, Senegal-Mauritania and Gabon contributing to this growth.

Recent project developments reflect ongoing activity across the region. These include the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim project on the Senegal–Mauritania maritime border, Mozambique’s Coral South FLNG project, and Nigeria’s Train 7 expansion at NLNG. Additional developments in the Rovuma Basin, gas fields in Tanzania, and planned expansions in Egypt’s Zohr field and offshore Mediterranean areas indicate broader resource development across West, East and North Africa.

Domestic gas demand across the continent is also increasing, supported by industrial requirements, power generation, and LNG import infrastructure in countries such as South Africa and Ghana. Data indicates that Africa’s gas consumption reached 183 billion cubic meters in 2025, reflecting year-on-year growth.

Dr. Mshelbila has also addressed energy access challenges, noting that more than 600 million people in Africa do not have access to electricity, while a larger number lack clean cooking solutions. He stated that energy consumption across the continent would need to triple by 2050 to address energy poverty.

The GECF continues to engage with international platforms, including the G20 Energy Transition Working Group and regional dialogues, focusing on the role of gas in energy systems, industrial development, and emissions reduction compared to other fossil fuels.

At the IAE 2026 Forum, Dr. Mshelbila’s participation is expected to provide insights into policy frameworks, investment conditions, and coordination among gas-producing countries in Africa. The discussions will also address factors such as security risks, financing conditions, and regulatory environments affecting project development.

The Invest in African Energy 2026 forum is scheduled for April 22–23, 2026, in Paris. The event is designed to connect African energy markets with global investors and will include participation from industry stakeholders, project developers, policymakers, and financial institutions.

The release was distributed by Energy Capital & Power on behalf of the organizers.